Final answer:
Three significant pollutants not classified as criteria pollutants but crucial to the environment and human health are benzene, perchloroethylene, and methylene chloride. Each of these toxic air pollutants is associated with serious health risks, including cancer and adverse environmental effects.
Step-by-step explanation:
While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified six 'criteria' pollutants that are regulated under the Clean Air Act, there are other pollutants of concern that are equally significant to environmental and human health, which are not classified as criteria pollutants. These are toxic air pollutants that include compounds known to cause cancer, reproductive effects, birth defects, and other serious health impacts.
Three examples of these toxic air pollutants are:
- Benzene: Found in gasoline, known to cause cancer.
- Perchloroethylene: Emitted from some dry cleaning facilities, associated with various health risks.
- Methylene chloride: Used as a solvent and paint, can cause adverse health effects.
In addition to the criteria pollutants like ozone, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter, these substances pose notable threats to both the environment and human well-being, necessitating careful monitoring and regulation.